Dog Kennel Cough Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Section 1: Symptoms of Canine Cough
In the early stages of the illness, dogs primarily exhibit a dry cough, which may be followed by vomiting. Generally, they remain alert and conscious, without signs of fever, runny nose, or other symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, the symptoms of canine cough can escalate to include painful coughing, high fever, decreased appetite, and discharge from the nose.
Section 2: Treatment for Canine Cough
Treating canine cough requires a comprehensive approach, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes. It's crucial to control the cough and other symptoms while also eliminating parasites. It's important to note that canine cough often results from a combination of factors, making it challenging for medications to reach the affected areas, and many antibiotics may not provide immediate relief. Some dog owners may resort to excessive use of antibiotics, but this is an unscientific approach. Prolonged and excessive use of antibiotics can weaken the dog's immune barrier, opening the door for viral infections.
When symptoms first appear, antiviral oral liquids like Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid, coughsuppressing She Danyin Beiye Liquid, and intramuscular injections of dexamethasone can be administered. Additionally, ensuring the dog stays warm and protected from the cold is vital. While treating the dog, it's also essential to sanitize the home to provide a clean environment for the pet.
Coughing is a symptom caused by various diseases rather than a standalone condition. It typically manifests as a protective reflex action, helping to expel mucus from the airways. Frequent coughing can disrupt eating and resting, leading to weight loss and potentially triggering secondary conditions like emphysema. Numerous diseases can cause coughing in dogs, including canine distemper, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, canine herpesvirus, canine parainfluenza, heartworm disease, and canine tuberculosis. Other common diseases such as tuberculosis, lobar pneumonia, bronchopneumonia, laryngitis, common cold, and more can also induce coughing.
Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on canine cough, you can read our article "Distinguishing Canine Cough from the Common Cold." Click here to learn more.